Difference Between Evolution and Revolution

Evolution vs Revolution

Evolution and Revolution are two words that are often confused due to the appearing similarity in their concepts and without paying attention to the difference that exists between them. However, before examining this difference that exists between evolution and revolution first let us examine the meanings of these two words. Interestingly, both evolution and revolution are used as nouns. While the origin of evolution can be traced back to the early 17th century, the origin of the word revolution in English is traced back to Late Middle English. Revolutionism and revolutionist are two derivatives of the word revolution. Evolutionism and evolutionary are derivatives of evolution.

What does Evolution mean?

The dictionary meaning of evolution is “gradual development of something or a gradual process in which something changes from one stage to another.” In other words, evolution is a process in which something passes through different stages, generally progressive, over a period. Evolution refers to the change in the behavior of man over a period. It also speaks about the changes in social conditions over a period. Evolution deals with the changes that take place in populations over a period and the theories that speak about these changes. It is important to note that evolution is based on observations, empirical data and tested hypotheses.

The various theories about the evolution of man are arrived at by observation of man’s response to social conditions, his behavioral changes over a period of time brought about by the influence of growth in civilization, and the like. This is the crux of the connotation of the word evolution.

What does Revolution mean?

On the other hand, the word revolution is derived from the Latin word revolutio meaning ‘a turn around’. Revolution can be defined as a sudden, complete, or radical change in something. It consists of the fundamental change in organizational structures or political power that takes place in a staggeringly short period. This is the major difference between the two words evolution and revolution.

According to Aristotle, there are two types of political revolution and they are complete change from one constitution to another constitution, and modification of an existing constitution. It is indeed true that the human history has seen several revolutions over different periods of time.

It is important to know that revolution brings about changes in culture, economy, and even socio-political conditions. Sometimes, the word revolution is used to denote changes that take place outside the political arena. There were a number of cultural revolutions and social revolutions too in the past. Philosophical revolutions also shook the world in the times of the past.

What is the difference between Evolution and Revolution?

• Evolution refers to the gradual development or changes in something over a period.

• On the other hand, the word revolution means ‘a turn around’; a sudden, complete, or radical change in something.

• Revolution is the fundamental change in something in a staggeringly short period. This is the major difference between the two words evolution and revolution.

• Evolution is based on observations, empirical data and tested hypotheses.

• Revolution brings about changes in culture, economy and even socio-political conditions.